Miscanthus sinensis Purple Fall - Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Purple Fall’ is one of the most fantastic Chinese reeds selected in recent years. This variety of eulalia has a beautiful stature and is infinitely graceful. It looks quite ordinary in summer in its green livery, but it displays fabulous autumn colours of red, purple, and violet. While its foliage undergoes its metamorphosis, tall plume-like inflorescences emerge, changing from beige-pink to silver, in a harmony of colours. This hardy and easy-to-grow grass pays a beautiful tribute to the late season. Give it a prime location, in the sun, in the heart of a perennial bed or in a large container on a patio. Like most Chinese reeds, this variety requires soil that is sufficiently moist and loose to fully thrive.

'Purple Fall' belongs to the large Poaceae family. It is a horticultural form derived from Miscanthus sinensis, a hardy species native to East Asia and Oceania. This variety undoubtedly carries the genes of M. 'Purpurascens', famous for its foliage that turns red at the end of the season. This perennial grass with short rhizomes develops in non-spreading clumps. It is tufted and fast-growing, but never invasive. The plant reaches a height of about 1.8m (6ft) in flower, with a spread of 70 to 90cm (28 to 35in). The linear leaves are very thin, very long, flexible, and green with white veins. Gradually, starting in August, the base of the leaves begins to turn red. The shades of red, purple, violet, and wine steadily spread throughout the clump of leaves. Long floral stems emerge parallel to the foliage, from September to November, in the form of digitate and silky, upright spikes. They are reddish at first, quickly becoming beige-pink. As they fade, they take on a lovely silvery hue. The plumes consist of tiny flowers that close a little after opening, only to open again when mature. They then take on a paler and fluffier appearance and persist on the plant throughout winter. The deciduous foliage dries up and turns yellow in winter.

'Purple Fall' is hardy and remarkably colourful, making it an excellent alternative to Pennisetum 'Rubrum', which is acclaimed for its habit and dark foliage but is grown as an annual in our climates. It is a remarkably ornamental 'grass', which should be prominently placed in flower beds, at the turn of a path, or near the entrance of the garden. It is suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. Plant it among asters, roses, and daylilies. Watch it grow and thicken, play with the wind and the low autumn light, and bend under rain showers. It also has its place in modern gardens with clean lines, alongside dwarf bamboos or ferns if the soil is moist. In an urban garden, Miscanthus 'Purple Fall' will soften concrete structures. Growing it in large containers is also a great option, allowing you to furnish a patio or balcony with panache and elegance.